Google planning Nexus 8.9 tablet, claims analyst

by
David Walker3/21/2014 7:28:47 AM

3/21/2014 7:28:47 AM

There has been talk of a new addition to the Nexus tablet range for some time without any concrete proof of it. But the weight of rumour and speculation is starting to point to a new device, probably the Google Nexus 8.9.

Back in February, we heard that HTC was building a new tablet for Google, tipped to ship in the third quarter of 2014. At the time it was said to be 'high-end', which was about all we had. Prior to that, we had got wind of Google planning an 8-inch tablet, also said to be a premium product. This latest rumour adds weight to both stores.

In an email to CNET, Rhoda Alexander, director of tablet and monitor research at IHS Technology claimed Google has plans for an 8.9-inch Nexus tablet, with volume production starting in 'July or August'. She adds that it will be a 'lower volume product', which will have a premium price tag to match specification. Regarding that price, she 'would not be surprised if it is higher than $299'.

HTC was again flagged up as the maker of the tablet, but details beyond that are once again absent. There is the chance that these details haven't yet been finalised or perhaps that Google and HTC has done a good job keeping that part under lock and key.

The same email also points to a new Nexus 7 too, but doesn't put any meat on those bones either. That's pretty much expected in the latter part of 2014, but nice to hear it confirmed.

We'll keep our ear to the ground for more on this, although it doesn't sound like Google's premium slate will be around for some months yet.